Digital Map Analysis Of Road Variations In Iraq

Abstract

This Geographical Research Utilizes Digital Maps to Analyze Spatial Variations Between Iraqi Governorates, Specifically concerning Roads. This Analysis Measures the Development Of Transportation Infrastructure Using Road Density Indices Were Applied :

1-Road Density Standard Based on Population.

2-Road Density Standard Based on Area.

For the Purpose of Applying These Two Indicators, Data From 2019 & 2024 Were Adopted Which Included Population Data and Road Lengths and Areas In Each of the Iraqi Governorates, of the Kurdistan Region of  Iraq. The Research, After Applying and Mapping the Two Indicators, Revealed Changes in These Indicators Between 2019 & 2024 .This included an Increase and Expansion of Roads in 2024, As Well as Spatial Variations Among Iraqi Governorates, as Revealed By the Digital Maps. For Example Baghdad Governorate Had a Limited Paved Road Network in 2019, Resulting in High Population Density Per Km.

This Changed in 2024 Due to the Expansion of the Road Network as a Result of Completed Projects, leading to a Decrease in Population Density Per Km. The Research Also Revealed that Governorates With Large Land Areas, Such as ( Najaf , Muthanna, and Alanbar, Had a Low Road Density Standard Per Unit Area . Therefore, the Research Recommends Focusing on the Road Network For Vehicles, Increasing its Length and Efficiency to Accommodate the Growing Population and Number of Vehicles in Iraq`s Governorates. It Also Emphasizes the Necessity of Utilizing Intelligent Transportation Systems for Roads Through Their Technological Management.